Federal NDP MP Libby Davies also posted her thoughts on Twitter with, “You know we all scrap like hell in #HoC but time like this we grieve together the terrible loss of Jim Flaherty”.

From B.C., Langley MP Mark Warawa – also sitting in Ottawa – said his colleagues on Parliament Hill were shocked by Flaherty’s passing, and also said he had no indication that the former finance minister was seriously ill.

“This helps us to realize how precious life is,” Warawa told the Langley Times. “There were a lot of tears and hugging on all sides of the House when this became known.

“I was shocked and saddened to hear that Jim Flaherty has passed away.

“This is a terrible loss for our country. Jim was a great leader and Canadian. He served with distinction in both provincial and federal politics, and made a difference in both. Under his watch, Canada returned to stability and balanced budgets.

“And while his achievements in Toronto and Ottawa will stand the test of time, perhaps his most important legacy was as a family man. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Christine and their three sons.”

“In the opportunities I have had to work with Minister Flaherty, I saw a man guided by his principles and commitment to a strong and united Canada.”

Flaherty had battled health problems, revealing a skin condition in January, 2013 – although his director of communications had referred to that condition as “non-life threatening” (CBC News). Flaherty also said his March resignation was not because of his health, saying at the time, “I am happy to report that I am on the road to a full recovery and the decision to leave politics was not related in any way to my health.

“This decision was made because it is the right one for me and my family at this time.”